Baked Pasta with Meat Sauce and Béchamel

This Baked Pasta with Meat Sauce and Béchamel is a comforting and hearty dish that combines al dente pasta with a rich, flavorful ground beef sauce, topped with a smooth and creamy béchamel sauce. The layers of savory meat sauce and cheesy béchamel come together in a baked casserole, creating a satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

This dish is reminiscent of classic Italian-style baked pasta but with a creamy, cheesy twist. The combination of ground beef, onions, garlic, and tomato paste in the meat sauce adds depth and flavor, while the béchamel provides a rich, silky finish. Topped with melted cheddar cheese, this baked pasta is bound to be a crowd-pleaser.

Full Recipe:

 

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

  • Pasta – 8 oz (250 g)
  • Salt – a pinch

For the Meat Sauce:

  • Oil – 2 tablespoons
  • Onion – 1, finely chopped
  • Garlic – 2 cloves, grated
  • Ground beef – 16 oz (450 g)
  • Tomato paste – 2 tablespoons
  • Salt – a pinch
  • Black pepper – a pinch
  • Dried oregano – 1 teaspoon

For the Béchamel Sauce:

  • Butter – 2 oz (60 g)
  • All-purpose flour – 2 tablespoons
  • Milk – 14 fl oz (400 ml)
  • Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
  • Nutmeg – ½ teaspoon
  • Cheddar cheese – 10 oz (300 g), grated (reserve 3 oz/100 g for topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes).
  • Drain the pasta and set it aside. You can drizzle a little olive oil over the pasta to prevent it from sticking while you prepare the sauces.

2. Prepare the Meat Sauce:

  • Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
  • Add the grated garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
  • Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it apart with a spatula. Cook the beef until it’s browned, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Stir in the tomato paste, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Mix well to coat the beef with the tomato paste, and cook for another 2-3 minutes to deepen the flavors.
  • Once the meat sauce is ready, remove it from heat and set it aside.

3. Make the Béchamel Sauce:

  • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to cook the raw taste out of the flour.
  • Gradually add the milk to the saucepan, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens and begins to bubble (about 5 minutes).
  • Stir in the black pepper and nutmeg to season the sauce. Remove the béchamel from heat and stir in 7 oz (200 g) of grated cheddar cheese until smooth and creamy.
  • Reserve the remaining 3 oz (100 g) of grated cheddar for the topping.

4. Assemble the Baked Pasta:

  • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  • In a large baking dish, spread an even layer of the cooked pasta.
  • Pour the meat sauce over the pasta and gently mix it to ensure the sauce is distributed evenly.
  • Pour the béchamel sauce over the top, spreading it evenly to cover the pasta and meat sauce.
  • Sprinkle the reserved 3 oz (100 g) of grated cheddar cheese over the top of the béchamel sauce for a cheesy, golden crust.

5. Bake the Pasta:

  • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
  • If you want the top to be extra crispy, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.

6. Serve:

  • Once the pasta is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
  • Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil if desired, and serve with a side salad or garlic bread.

Cooking Tips

  • Cheese Options: While cheddar adds a sharp, tangy flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses such as mozzarella, gouda, or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
  • Pasta Types: This dish works well with various types of pasta, such as penne, rigatoni, or fusilli. Choose a pasta shape that can hold onto the sauce for the best results.
  • Béchamel Sauce: When making the béchamel, whisk continuously to prevent lumps from forming. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can thin it out with a little extra milk.
  • Make-Ahead: This dish can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply assemble the dish, cover it with foil, and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, remove the foil and bake as directed.

Storage

  • Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pasta in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through, or use the microwave for quicker reheating.
  • Freezing: This baked pasta dish freezes well. To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely after baking, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 6 servings):

  • Calories: 580 kcal
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Fat: 36 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg

Please note that these values are approximate and depend on portion sizes and the specific brands of ingredients used.


FAQs

1. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or use a combination of sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or other vegetables to create a hearty vegetarian version.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with various pasta shapes, such as penne, rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle. Choose any pasta that can hold onto the sauce well.

3. How can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the pasta in a baking dish and warm it in the oven until heated through, or use a microwave for quicker reheating.

4. What can I serve with this baked pasta?

This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or garlic bread. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli for added nutrition.

5. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this dish up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, remove the cover and bake as directed.


Conclusion

This Baked Pasta with Meat Sauce and Béchamel is a comforting and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of flavorful meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and melted cheese creates a rich and satisfying meal that’s sure to be a family favorite.

With its layers of tender pasta, savory beef, and cheesy sauce, this dish is not only filling but also versatile. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, it’s bound to impress. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that’s both hearty and comforting. Enjoy!